Clutch problem

JLP021083

MEMBER
FORD

I have a 1999 Ford Fiesta Finesse with 60,000 miles on the clock. I had been out shopping and as I was pulling up at home I could smell a strong burning smell inside the car. When I stopped and got out there was a white smoke coming from the side of the car and the smell of burning was even stronger. My father looked under the bonnet and could not see anything. However, the smell was coming from the left handside of the car. My father and I both felt the wheel trim and it was boiling hot. We felt the other wheels and they were barely warm. My father thinks it could be a problem with the brakes (maybe they were catching against something). Have you heard of this problem before?
Thanks

1 Reply

THIS IS MIKE

MECHANIC
686 POSTS

It sounds like there is a problem with the brakes. You should have the wheels removed and check the brake system. The burning smell could be brake fluid or a plastic bag that got caught on the brakes. If it is the rear brakes, look for a broken return spring holding the brakes on and heating that wheel up. If it is the front brakes, check the slide calipers to see if they are stuck. I hope this helps, thanks for the donation :D